selalu — meaning in English: always

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selalu

ayah

meresapi

kekayaan

sedih

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use 'selalu' in both casual and formal conversations to express consistency or reliability. For instance, one might say 'Saya selalu bangun pagi' (I always wake up early) when discussing daily routines, or 'Dia selalu membantu saya' (He always helps me) to describe someone's dependable nature.

Synonyms & nuances

'Selalu' is often used interchangeably with 'senantiasa,' but the latter has a more poetic or literary feel, often reserved for formal contexts. You would choose 'selalu' in everyday conversation and 'senantiasa' in more elevated or artistic speech.

Culture

'Selalu' stems from the Old Javanese word 'salalu,' which conveys a sense of continuity. In Indonesian culture, the concept of consistency is highly valued, particularly in relationships and commitments, making 'selalu' a word that resonates deeply in social interactions.

FAQ

Q.How do you use 'selalu' in a sentence?

'Selalu' can be used to indicate a habitual action. For example, 'Saya selalu minum kopi di pagi hari' means 'I always drink coffee in the morning.'

Q.Can 'selalu' be used in negative sentences?

Yes, 'selalu' can be used in negative sentences. For instance, 'Dia tidak selalu datang tepat waktu' means 'He does not always arrive on time.'

Q.What are common mistakes when using 'selalu'?

A common mistake is to omit it when describing habits. Remember, 'selalu' specifically emphasizes the frequency of an action, so ensure it's placed correctly to clarify consistency.

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Indonesian Vocabulary